November – Grooming Instruction Program Student Of The Month – 2013

ABC Grooming Instruction Program Student of the Month– November 2013

Michelle Franco

Michelle Franco is one of Animal Behavior College’s achieving grooming students. She resides in San Burno, Calif., and works as a Salon Manager at Shamrock Ranch, in Pacifica, Calif. Michelle is currently enjoying her externship at Le Chein Fortune in Millbrae, Calif.

Was grooming your first choice for a career?

Grooming was not my first choice for a career. I actually wanted to be a veterinarian. While still fairly young, I realized I was too sensitive to see pets in peril. I still wanted to be involved in something with animals. I chose grooming because it allows me to embrace my creative side and still work with animals.

How long have you been grooming?

I have been in the grooming industry for 6 years total. I spent 4 years as a bather and brusher. I have spent the last 2 years as a groomer doing full-body haircuts. I came to Animal Behavior College to further my grooming education. Around the holidays, I also like to volunteer to be the Pet Santa Photographer at my local mall.

What animal or person most inspired you to pursue a career in the animal industry?

Both my father and grandfather inspired me to pursue the grooming industry and have made me who I am today. My grandfather owned a mechanics shop that I used to love visiting when I was younger. I wanted to be like him and own my own business, except I wanted to have animals instead of cars as my clients. My father was a “dog whisperer” in his own way and he inspired my love of animals. He made me appreciate how much animals impact our lives.

What knowledge and experiences have you gained from becoming an ABC certified pet groomer?

Enrolling in Animal Behavior College’s Grooming Program, I have learned more than I realized. ABC has given me the steps and tools to maintain my longevity in the grooming industry. My grooming certificate from ABC will allow me to add status and accreditation to the grooming services I offer my clients. Through my externship, I have also learned more about different techniques and styles of grooming and also about different day-to-day operations of another salon. It opened my eyes to ways and styles of not only grooming, but also leadership and management of a grooming shop.

If you could style a dog or cat after any celebrity, who would it be and why

I think it would be really fun to do a miniature poodle styled in the likeness of Lady Gaga, complete with a bouffant, sparkle glasses and a leather spiked collar. She has such fun and a wild style that leaves room for creativity and glamour. And besides, who does not love to talk about the outrageous! I like Lady Gaga because she has inspired me to believe in myself and be proud of the person I am.

What are your plans for the future?

My plans for the future include fun things. I would like to get involved with competitive grooming. I also would like to go to grooming shows to continue to learn and find ways to further my creative grooming techniques. I think it would also be fun to one day to get involved in Show Grooming.